Contents

Ein Kerem is a secluded village suburb on the outskirts of West Jerusalem. Surrounded by hills dotted with olive and cypress trees, the village is refreshingly quiet although only 20 minute bus ride southwest of the city centre. Ein Kerem's stone houses are now mostly inhabited by Israeli artists and sculptors, and there is a wide variety of art galleries in the village. Alongside, there is also a choice of small cafes and restaurants. Travellers will be interested in visiting also the large number of religious sites (Jewish and Christian) in and around Ein Kerem, the reputed birthplace of John the Baptist. Before 1948, the site was a Palestinian village.

the Notre Dame de Sion monastery, guest house and garden which is open for visitors and give a marvelous experience

the Church of Saint John franciscan church and monastery

the Mosque of Omar Since 'Umar Ib al-Khatab visited and prayed in the village soon after the Muslim Arab conquest in the 7th century, a mosque has been erected for this occasion (which remains standing to this date).